World Mental Health Day 2023: 10 early signs of depression to look out for

World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th every year. It’s a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting mental well-being around the world. The day aims to highlight the importance of mental health and mobilize efforts in support of mental health education, awareness and advocacy.

World Mental Health Day is recognized with the aim of raising awareness. The day serves as a platform to spread awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma and encourage open discussions about mental wellbeing. It also aims to educate individuals and communities about mental health, its potential impact on people’s lives and the resources available to seek help and support.

Recognizing World Mental Health Day aims to break down the barriers surrounding mental health, create a more compassionate society, and ensure that mental health receives the importance and attention it deserves. Another way to enjoy this day is to talk about the mental health struggles many of us face. One of them is depression.

Depression is a mental health disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness, and lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It can significantly affect a person’s ability to function in daily life and can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms. Read on as we list some of the early signs of depression.

Early signs of depression can help identify the condition. These signs may include:

1. Persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness

Depression often manifests as a persistent low mood or feelings of emptiness that last for weeks or months.

2. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

A person suffering from depression may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, such as hobbies, socializing, or even basic daily tasks.

3. Changes in appetite and weight

Depression can lead to changes in appetite, resulting in significant weight loss or gain, even without intentional dieting or overeating.

4. Sleep disorders

Sleep problems are common in depression, with individuals experiencing insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness).

5. Fatigue or loss of energy

Constantly feeling tired, exhausted, or lacking energy, even after a full night’s sleep, is a typical symptom of depression.

6. Difficulty concentrating

Depression can impair a person’s ability to concentrate, make decisions, and remember information, affecting their work or academic performance.

7. Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness

Individuals with depression often experience pervasive negative thoughts, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and a sense of hopelessness about the future.

8. Irritability or excessive anger

Depression can manifest itself as increased irritability, a short temper, or inexplicable outbursts of anger, even over minor issues.

9. Withdrawal from social interactions

People with depression may isolate themselves from others, avoid social activities, and withdraw from contact with friends, family, and loved ones.

10. Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Persistent thoughts of death, death, or suicide are considered serious warning signs of depression and require immediate attention and intervention.

It is important to note that experiencing some of these signs does not necessarily mean someone is experiencing depression, as everyone can have it some days. However, if these symptoms persist for two weeks or more and significantly affect daily functioning, it is advisable to seek professional help for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV assumes no responsibility for this information.